Anton Seuffert (New Zealand), furniture

Born around 1814 in Bohemia, Anton Seuffert followed in his father's footsteps becoming a woodworker, eventually becoming a foreman at the firm of Leistler and Sons in Vienna. His craftsmanship led him to London during the 1851 Great Exhibition, where he assembled furniture for four sets of rooms. Notably, some of these pieces graced Queen Victoria's presence as a gift from the Emperor of Austria.

In 1858, Seuffert and his family migrated to Auckland, New Zealand, where his skill became renowned. He was sought after for crafting furniture for notable visitors to the city and gained citizenship in 1861, marking a commitment to his newfound home. Throughout his life, Seuffert's designs revealed an intimate understanding of New Zealand's native woods, textures, and natural motifs, as well as Maori influences.

The pinnacle of his career arrived in 1861-1862 with a remarkable writing cabinet, adorned with intricate more... inlays of New Zealand woods – a masterpiece valued at 300 guineas. The citizens of Auckland gifted this cabinet o her Majesty the Queen and is still in use in Buckingham Palace. Seuffert served as cabinet-maker to Governor George Grey in 1862-1863, creating exquisite inlaid panels for the Mansion House library. These panels, bearing Grey's coat of arms, transformed into tables and remain cherished in private collections.

The signature Louis XV style was a hallmark of Seuffert's craftsmanship, evident in an inlaid cabinet he crafted for Grey. This style resonated throughout his career, as he crafted at least eight similar cabinets. After the Duke of Edinburgh's visit in 1869, Seuffert's expertise earned him a royal appointment, a testament to his artistry and attention to detail.

Exhibiting internationally at events like the 1862, 1873, 1879, and 1880-81 exhibitions and locally at the Auckland Society of Arts, Seuffert's work garnered widespread acclaim. His dedication to his craft and family endured until his passing on August 6, 1887, in Auckland. His legacy carried on through his son William, a skilled cabinet-maker and inlayer who continued the family tradition. less...